Eurofins Sacramento, part of the Eurofins network of companies in the US, in collaboration with SCIEX USA, successfully achieved the analytical challenge of detecting the 2022 interim Health Advisory Levels (HALs) of 4ppq (parts per quadrillion) for PFOA and 20ppq for PFOS, as established by the US EPA. The drinking water HALs for PFAS are not enforceable regulatory limits but indicate the levels below which adverse health effects are not anticipated to occur, considering lifetime exposure. The low ppq levels demand an unprecedented level of cleanliness and instrument sensitivity which ultimately necessitate newer, and more robust analytical techniques.

The results achieved provide clear evidence that ultra-trace levels of PFOA and PFOS can be detected, but with significantly increased levels of effort, cost, and environmental impact that are not sustainable for routine analysis. With this demonstration of capabilities, Eurofins Sacramento is in the process of developing an ultra-trace method capable of supporting the analysis of PFAS in the sub-ppt range.